PhD Studentship: Understanding Environmental and Mechanical Degradation of High Temperature Alloys for Next Generation Nuclear Reactors

About the project:

To achieve net zero the next generation of nuclear reactors is being developed and deployed all over the world. Structural austenitic materials, such as high nickel alloys and stainless steels will need to be pushed to higher temperatures and harsher conditions to unlock this clean energy. This project is co-funded by the UK National Nuclear Laboratory who are currently leading the UK’s Advanced Modular Reactor programme [1]. Results from this PhD can lead directly into the materials development of some of the UK’s new High Temperature Gas-cooled Reactors.

This project will focus on the mechanistic understanding of the degradation of these materials oriented for HTGR applications. Specifically, it will investigate 1) the creep behaviour, 2) the effect of impure helium (He) environment and 3) the potential role of nuclear radiation, at the temperature range between ~600°C and 1000°C.

Your opportunity:

You will have the opportunity to develop a unique set of skills including:

• Experimental expertise: High-temperature mechanical testing and in-situ (including irradiation) testing
• Materials characterisation techniques including using state-of-the-art electron microscopes
• Data analyses and computational skills
• Professional development: Scientific writing, presentations, and collaboration with leading researchers
• Industry engagement: Close collaboration with the UK National Nuclear Laboratory, contributing directly to next-generation reactor materials development
• Furthermore you will have the opportunity to attend scientific conferences and workshops both nationally and internationally. Besides targeting academic success, this PhD will provide you the necessary mentorship so that you can have a prosperous post-PhD career

Who we are looking for:

• A first or upper-second-class UG degree, or a Master degree, in a relevant discipline such as, materials science and engineering, nuclear engineering, chemical engineering, physics, or mechanical engineering
• Experience in nuclear materials, mechanical testing, or microstructural characterisation is beneficial but not required—we welcome candidates eager to develop new skills
• A driven individual with an inquisitive mind and a passion for materials research to benefit society

Funding notes: 

The scholarship covers a tax-free PhD stipend at the UKRI level plus UK home tuition fees. This project is partially funded by the industrial partner UKNNL, who are also providing access to their central laboratory and project supervision.

Contact: Professor Yu-Lung Chiu (y.chiu@bham.ac.uk) and Jonathan Hawes (jonathan.hawes@uknnl.com)

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